Giulia's+letter

April, 30 1866 Dear family,

This is what’s going on in my life, I went through a very hard disaster. The Steamboat Sultana explosion. You may have heard of it

I was hurled off the steamboat and swam for a very long time. The steamboat had no life boats and no life jackets. Finally I reached an island. I am sorry to say but I no longer have two legs I have one. My leg got burned off in the hot and blazing fire explosion. Trust me it was scary! Also I have a very bad bruise on my arm. It hurts terribly, I feel like I broke it but I didn’t. When I got hurled off the boat my arm hit a ledge on the side of the boat while I was on my way down. Sadly right now I am in the hospital. I am telling you now may need some money for a fake leg and a strong bandage for my bruised arm.

I am not sure when or how I am going to get home. When I am out of the hospital I may hire a horse and carriage to take me home. I am probably not going to see you for another two months. I miss you and love you all. Tell Maggie and Meg I love them and you too.

Love, Daddy

Dear Daddy, I was so sad when I read this letter and found out about the tragic event that had occurred. I was so glad to find out you hadn't died. I was shocked to hear what had happened and could not believe it.I hope that you are somewhat okay. It must have been a very scarry moment.

We will try to find money for you to buy a new leg.You will probably need a bandage for your arm so we will try to find you one. It must of been very frightening to have no life boats or life jackets. You were probably very nervous while all of this was happening. I can not imagine what it was like. I don't think anyone else can who was not there to experience it.

It must be terrible to be in a hospital considering the amount of time you are spending there. I hope it will be easy to find a horse and carriage to take you back home to where the rest of us are.We miss you and love you and hope you can come back soon, we can't wait to see you again.

Love, Family